Transnational Politics (PSC 350.001)

Also known as: Contemporary Issues in International Relations

Instructors: Hans Peter Schmitz

Lindsey N. Kingston

Are you registered for this class?

Definition of course content

Transnational relations:

“regular interactions across national boundaries when at least one actor is a non-state agent or does not operate on behalf of a national government or an intergovernmental organization” (Risse-Kappen 1995: 3)

The Basics I

Class web site

The majority of readings are posted online.

The Basics II

The minimum requirements for this class are -

(1) regular reading of the materials, class attendance, and active participation, 

(2) mid-term (March 5) and final paper (take-home), (3) presentation as part of a “moot court” session,  (4) two response papers on the readings.

The Basics III

The final grade consists of:

Mid-term (in-class) 20% Final paper (take home)  20% Moot Court presentation  20% Response papers  20% Attendance/Participation 20%

Grades are posted on Blackboard.

The mid-term

Based on the first weeks of materials.

Essay questions, ID-questions, short questions on: theory of IR and transnational relations Non-state actors Transnational campaigns

The final paper

A randomly assigned country. Write a report, based on suggested sources (U.S.

State Department, Freedom House) about a transnational issue of your choice.

The presentations (moot courts)

Groups of 3-4 students prepare an issue based on the assigned readings.

Group meets the instructor at least one week prior to the session.

Right now: Suggestions for topics? Think about the topic you would like to research and

present.

The response papers (2)

Three pages long; based on one of the readings assigned.

You will be assigned two dates different from your presentation.

Presenting groups will be able to call on your expertise during moot court sessions.

Attendance/participation

Attendance will be taken every session. Advice us before you are missing a lecture/section. Come to our office hours. Use the class web site every day.

Right now: Ask plenty of questions.

Why take this class?

Use the index cards to tell me more about yourself. What are your expectations?

Digital pictures in upcoming session.